Dallas Stars Shine Against Jets, Granlund Unleashes His Hattrick
On a memorable night for the Dallas Stars, Mikael Granlund became the main figure by achieving his first playoff hat-trick. The Texan team defeated the Winnipeg Jets with a score of 3-1, consolidating a 3-1 lead in the second round series of the Western Conference playoffs.
The return of Miro Heiskanen, after an absence of 42 games, was another highlight for the Stars. The Finnish defenseman, key to the team’s scheme, demonstrated his worth by assisting on Granlund’s third goal and totaling 19 shifts with 14:52 minutes on the ice.
Dallas coach Pete DeBoer had anticipated Heiskanen’s return, fulfilling his predictions and reinforcing the team for this crucial stage.
Mikko Rantanen, with a key assist, raised his playoff points total to 19, leading the NHL in this category. Granlund’s second goal, assisted by Rantanen, broke the tie and put the Stars in a definitive lead.
Granlund celebrated his third goal with enthusiasm, demonstrating the importance of his performance. With this achievement, the 33-year-old player added his fourth goal in these playoffs, marking a milestone in his career.
The next game, Game 5, will be played in Winnipeg on Thursday, where the Stars will seek to secure their place in the Western Conference final for the third consecutive year.
Nikolaj Ehlers scored the only goal for the Jets, who have suffered defeats in their five away games this postseason.
Heiskanen’s reappearance came after a knee injury that kept him out of action since January 28. His return, eagerly awaited, added an extra element of excitement to the team.
Granlund opened the scoring with a spectacular goal, demonstrating his skill and determination. His shot, from 38 feet, beat goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, making it the initial 1-0.
Hellebuyck, despite his efforts, has suffered nine consecutive losses in away playoff games.
Ehlers tied the score for the Jets in the second period, but the Stars managed to hold onto their lead to secure the victory.
